EDITORIAL International SOLIDARITY 2019 marks three decades since some Spanish officers participated, as observers, in the United Nations mission that verified the withdrawal of Cuban troops from the territory of Angola. This event put an end to a long isolation stage and initiated our participation in international operations. These have increased Spain’s prestige among nations and have helped us contribute to the cause of peace. In addition, missions abroad have been an important modernizing tool for the Army, Air Force and Navy and a constant school for our servicemen and women, who have had to carry out tasks of increasing complexity in very demanding scenarios. Since then, the attitude and effectiveness of our troops, along with their ability to interact with the population, have served as role models for the rest of the countries. Their capacity for social approach, together with their training, including learning local traditions and culture, enables them to soon gain the trust and appreciation of the populations where they are deployed. It is also important to underscore the outstanding role of our servicewomen, with a crucial moral effect on the local female population, who with their image of professionalism and leadership convey courage, pride and hope in the future. The great thing about this celebration is that Spain is still today an example of responsibility, with almost 3,000 troops serving in sixteen missions. Spain has become a relevant and influential country in the international arena and a reliable partner of organizations such as the United Nations, NATO or the European Union. Since threats can emerge thousands of miles away, our Armed Forces thus contribute to national security, which is essential for the Spanish society to continue to enjoy peace and well-being. We are facing a global challenge that we should confront jointly and severally with the international community as a whole. This year, Spain’s National Day commemorated this anniversary. Therefore, to mark 30 years since the first mission, there was a parade at the Paseo de la Castellana in Madrid on October 12. Guidons of several units which have participated in international operations marched in front of the King and Queen of Spain, as well as troops from Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal. These are countries where Spain has troops deployed or with which it cooperates militarily. Even the slogan for that day, «Committed to peace», reflected the devotion to world security and stability that our Armed Forces share with the rest of the citizens. RED (Revista Española de Defensa) December 2019 Revista Española de Defensa 7
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